Grandson Is Calling Out Politicians and Corruption Through Music

The United States has faced an interesting political climate since the 2016 Presidential Election. We have witnessed Donald J. Trump, the former host of The Apprentice, become the first President without any previous political experience. Celebrities have taken a larger role in American politics than ever before, with Hollywood often calling out the President. Now, a new artist is rising in the music industry, bringing a unique sound and message to the American people and it’s a message that many agree with.

Born Jordan Benjamin, Grandson is a politically charged artist that delivers guitars and beat drops accompanied by a message. He doesn’t hint at his meaning through indirect references, but rather states what he is thinking. Born in New Jersey, Benjamin was raised in Toronto where he taught himself how to play guitar and piano. Now based in Los Angeles, he is signed to the Fueled by Ramen record label.

Grandson’s music can range from talking about being unfaithful to a partner to discussing gun violence, particularly school shooting incidents. Arguably the most politically charged song that he has made, Thoughts & Prayers is Grandson’s way of expressing his anger over the government’s ineffectiveness when it comes to dealing with gun violence on school campus’. The song starts off with a chorus of children singing, and the message is quite menacing for the political opponents of the artist.

No thoughts, no prayers
Can bring back what’s no longer there
The silent are damned
The body count is on your hands

These lines are repeated in the chorus, with anger clearly being a motive for Grandson’s thoughts on the issue. The phrase “thoughts and prayers” is often used by those on social media and in public after a horrible event happens, whether it’s a terrorist attack, school shooting, earthquake, etc.. Grandson appears to be calling out those that use the phrase and do nothing about the problem. He takes his message a step further by accusing some of being, whether partially or fully, responsible for those that are dead. Grandson enters the song during the first verse.

Smile for the camera
Another politician bought
I swear I heard another shot
Cash another payment
Red all on the canvas
It’s murder on the campus

Another press conference
Nothing gets accomplished
The suit is an accomplice
Money is the motive
The war is in the street
Watch history repeat

It is safe to say that the first verse sums up the song’s message: politicians are scared of losing money from organizations like the National Rifle Association, and that those politicians are accomplices in the crimes that are being committed.

Grandson is rising in the music industry and is being recognized by major figures, like Mike Shinoda, co-founder of Linkin Park and solo-rapper. Grandson was featured on Shinoda’s song “Running From My Shadow“. Sooner or later, Grandson will be recognized by his enemies as a true contender, and his allies will rally behind his music as a battle cry. The following list provides an introduction to his songs and the meaning behind them.

Bills – The older adults in society burden the next generations with bills and taxes, but the younger generation is also full of greed in the pursuit of money.

Bury Me Face Down – A story of the strength needed to claw your way up through the music industry, and to achieve the goals you have set.

Kiss Bang – A story of a man cheating on his main significant other with a “side chick”.

Best Friends – A story of finding fulfillment, alongside friends who spill their feelings and how they are trapped.

thoughts & prayers – An anger filled message accusing politicians of corruption and valuing money over the lives of children.

War – A message that is directed at the President of the United States, believing he will lead us to war. The song also speaks out against inequality and other issues.

Overdose – The effects that drugs can have on an individual, particularly hardcore drugs.

Blood // Water – Arguably Grandson’s biggest hit, the song talks about corruption and greed in politics, and how those involved in these practices will be caught.

Stick Up – A story of a veteran who feels betrayed by the American government, and chooses violence to send a message.

Despicable – A story of a failed relationship, broken off by an individual who may be suffering from depression.

6:00 – A message about equality and police brutality that many innocent people have suffered.

Published by James Sweet III

James Sweet is a reporter for 71 Republic from Lexington, South Carolina. He is an advocate for voluntary association and the free markets, alongside personal responsibility. As well as being a member of his school's FBLA chapter and debate team, James is the Director of the South Carolina Libertarian Youth Caucus. He also serves on the Libertarian Youth Caucus's National Board, and is South Carolina's Director of the Midlands for BackPAC. You can contact him at [email protected]
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